Black Walnuts

I have seen several recipes calling for black walnuts. What is the difference between them and the walnuts that are usually found in grocery stores? —J.W., Niles, Michigan

The walnuts found in the grocery store are mild-tasting English walnuts. They have a semi-firm light brown shell. Native American black walnuts have a very hard thick black shell. The flavor is richer and more intense than the English walnut. Because black walnuts are difficult to shell, they are not as widely available commercially as English walnuts.

Featured Recipes

I've made batches of these rolls to give to the mail carrier for Christmas, to our church music minister for his birthday and for any number of people who needed a pick-me up. Thick cream cheese frosting is the fast finishing touch.

This part of the Show Me State has an abundance of black walnuts, so these cookies certainly represent my region of the country. I created this recipe after a lot of experimentation...my family thinks they're a hit!

My mother's family members all were excellent cooks and known for their great hospitality. A longtime family favorite, this old-fashioned cake was always expected at holiday dinners, special occasions and potlucks.